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Archive for September, 2014

Unless you are a native American, you came from some place other than the United States. Well, maybe not you personally, but your family ancestors did. My heritage is German-Russian. My great grandparents lived in Germany. They left and moved to the Volga region in Russia when Catherine the Great made promises to them. She wanted Germans to farm the Russian region that was similar to the German region. She promised that the young men would not have to be in the military (as it was at that time). She did not keep her promise and my "family" moved to the United States and settled in Kansas.

Oktoberfest and Personal Heritage

Unfortunately, I was not taught to speak German. My grandparents knew the language and my parents knew a little. I feel that a little of my heritage was lost when they didn't share this language with us. But, at that time, they were criticized for speaking German and my great grandparents wanted to be citizens of the United States, so they learned English and stopped speaking German (except sometimes at home). I was fortunate enough to know my great grandparents and have fond memories of them.

I am excited about the 4th Annual Berthoud authentic Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 4 from 11 am - 6 pm. It is a chance for me to hear the German music I heard as a child, dance the polka's I also loved to do when I was young (dancing with my sisters) and eat the German food I so enjoy. Even if you didn't grow up with German heritage, you can come and enjoy this festival.

Come to Fickel Park on Saturday, October 4 anytime between 11 am - 6 pm. It's free admission. We'll provide the entertainment and the music. There will be food, beer and vendor items for purchase. The Chalet Dancers will perform as well as Breathless in Berthoud Dance Troupe. We will also have a children's pretzel eating contest. If you own Lederhosen or a Dirndl, we have a prize for the best outfit.